What a lovely cape! I am sure the woman who originally wore this in the 1930s must have loved it. It was wool and extra large. I posed the retro model outdoors in a variety of settings, because it was so pretty! I especially love the pictures of the green cape against the green brick. I think these photos make for a timeless fashion editorial spread.

The model and I decided to make a quick drive to Carondelet Park. I love these photos of the black French Lace dress even more than the studio photos! It was so easy to get caught up in taking pictures, with the perfect weather and perfect fashion. We shot in the Carondelet Boathouse, on the fishing dock, and under the columned spaces in front. I especially like the portraits with the Carondelet Boat House behind the model. Even with minimal editing, they look totally turn of the century.

This was supposedly a French Lace dress worn to the 1904 World’s Fair. It’s hard to see how it fit, or what the original owner’s size was. Was she petite and the lace draped, or was she a larger woman? Black lace makes for classic styling and photos, any way! The lace was still in amazing condition, but it was literally falling apart at the seams. Here are the first studio photos I shot of that dress.

These hats belonged to the Carondelet Historical Society. The pink dress was from the 1980s and we got it for $2 at the thrift shop next door. The green cloak she’s wearing is from the 1920s.This mixed wardrobe was perfect inspiration for some very emotive, classic, portraits.